The country’s authorities have handed out guidance to visitors and warned that people should avoid being outside during the hottest hours of the day
Conor Wilson and Liam Ryder Digital Production Editor
20:00, 11 Jul 2025
Visitors to Spanish tourist hotspots have been warned by authorities(Image: Alfonso Nieva via Getty Images)
Spanish officials have sounded the alarm for people in the country this weekend. Authorities have advised people in Spain to “avoid” certain activities due to predictions of extreme weather.
With southern Europe in the grips of a severe heatwave, temperatures are soaring past 40C in many regions, including Andalusia in Spain’s south. Spain remains one of a top destinations for Brits chasing the sun, as more than 18.4 million UK visitors made the trip in 2024. But the oppressive heat has had serious consequences.
Authorities investigating a woman’s death in Barcelona are looking at the role of the high temperatures while she was working outside as a street cleaner. Although the UK Foreign Office hasn’t released any specific travel advisories for Spain, local officials are calling for caution.
Warning over 11am to 3pm period in Spain
People are warned against engaging in intense activities during the hottest parts of the day, between 11am and 3pm, and stressing the need to stay well-hydrated. Vulnerable groups such as the elderly and young children are particularly encouraged to follow this advice, as reported by the Express.
A wave of hot air from Africa moving north is thought to be responsible for these unusually high temperatures, even for a typically warm July. Spain’s national weather agency, AEMET, has issued a warning for scorching temperatures expected to exceed 40C over the coming weekend and into next week.
Yet northern Spain is set to face a different challenge with forecasts of storms and heavy downpours throughout the weekend. The General Directorate of Civil Protection and Emergencies (DGPCE) has highlighted that regions including Bilbao, Pamplona, and Santander might experience severe weather conditions.
A woman cools off with a fan during a heatwave in Seville(Image: PIERRE-PHILIPPE MARCOU, AFP via Getty Images)
The Basque Country, Cantabria, and Navarre are particularly likely to see showers. Weather experts predicted “persistent” rain on Friday, July 11 and “significant” storms in parts of the Valencian Community on Saturday, July 12.
Additionally, the Balearic Islands may also witness storms, according to the DGPCE. A spokesperson said: “If you are driving, reduce your speed, take extra precautions, and avoid stopping in areas where large amounts of water may flow.
“If you must travel, try to drive on main roads and highways. In the event of sudden storms and heavy rain, be mindful of where you park your vehicles.
“Rapidly rising water levels can damage vehicles parked in flood-prone areas and sweep them away, causing damage to property and even obstructing the natural flow of water. If torrential rain begins, be aware of the risk of flooding.
Barcelona was shaken by a spectacular electrical storm in August 2021(Image: Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
“Do not drive or walk through flooded areas, as you will not know what may be under the water. Locate the highest points in the area.
“Do not attempt to save your car in the midst of a flood. If you are in the countryside, stay away from rivers, streams, and low-lying areas on slopes and hills, avoiding crossing flooded fords.
“Likewise, you should head for the highest points in the area. The danger from thunderstorms for people occurs primarily in open countryside.
“However, in urban areas there is also a risk of lightning strikes, so it is advisable to stay close to buildings for protection.
“In homes, it is advisable to avoid drafts. If you are driving, a closed vehicle can be a good shelter. If a thunderstorm surprises you in the countryside, avoid running and stay in high places, such as the tops of hills, ridges, or watersheds.
“Do not take shelter under trees and stay away from barbed wire fences and metal objects.”
What is the NHS advice during a heatwave?
The NHS has guidance on how to deal with heatwaves(Image: Getty)
The NHS reminds us that during severe bouts of hot weather, like those currently affecting parts of southern Europe, incidents of illness and even deaths rise notably. They are offering advice for anyone who might find themselves enduring extremely high temperatures.
Their recommendations include: “Keep out of the heat if you can. If you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter.
“Have cold food and drinks, avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes. Close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down.”
For indoor cooling, experts suggest: “Electric fans can help if the temperature is below 35 degrees. Check the temperature of rooms, especially where people at higher risk live and sleep.”